UAE Reveals 100 Universities Eligible for Golden Visa; Ukrainian Institutions Missing While Moscow State University Included

Ukrainian Universities Missing from Global Recognition

According to Radiotrek — Світ: Professor Ihor Likarchuk highlighted that the United Arab Emirates recently published a list of 100 top universities worldwide, whose graduates qualify for Abu Dhabi's prestigious Golden Visa. Notably, no Ukrainian universities made the cut, whereas Moscow State University named after Lomonosov is featured among the selected institutions.

Likarchuk, a Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences and former head of Ukraine’s Center for Educational Quality Assessment, emphasized:

“There isn’t a single Ukrainian university on this list. Not one!” - Ihor Likarchuk

He described this omission as a disgrace for Ukraine, especially considering the country’s evolving education sector.

Challenges Facing Ukraine’s Higher Education

The list, released on October 15, 2026, identifies universities whose bachelor’s degree graduates can apply for the UAE’s Golden Visa, a program designed to attract global talent. The absence of Ukrainian higher education institutions has raised concerns among educators, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MESU), and the National Agency for Higher Education Quality Assurance (NAQA).

Professor Likarchuk also pointed out several systemic issues within Ukrainian education, including:

• the advanced age of university rectors, many over 80 years old;
• insufficient reforms in accreditation processes;
• lack of comprehensive development strategies.

As the global education landscape rapidly evolves, Ukraine must address these challenges to avoid falling behind.

The exclusion of Ukrainian universities from this influential list underscores the country’s ongoing struggles in higher education, potentially limiting the international competitiveness of its graduates in a globalized job market. Urgent educational reforms and alignment with international standards are essential to improve Ukraine’s standing and opportunities for its students.